Word Origin & History

profane late 14c., from L. profanare "to desecrate," from profanus "unholy, not consecrated," from pro fano "not admitted into the temple (with the initiates)," lit. "out in front of the temple," from pro- "before" + fano, abl. of fanum "temple." The adj. is attested from late 15c.; originally "un-ecclesiastical, secular;" sense of "unholy, polluted" is recorded from c.1500.

Example Sentences for profane

It is not profane if I now say, 'with a great price obtained I this freedom.'

But he did not profane that scene by the mockery of his art.

How strikingly different is the course of profane and sacred history!

I worshipped the divinity, even while I attempted to profane the altar.

He would not have it supposed that only the profane or grossly wicked were in danger from the law. '

Its unpardonableness.nations, as of a passion atheistical, brutal, and profane.

The happenings of the next few minutes were noisy and profane.

He was rising but Judge Knowles barked a profane order for him to keep his seat.

To bid the mockers and them that dare—dare to profane this sanctuary be careful.